The .22LR is often dismissed as a self-defense cartridge, but modern ammunition technology has made this tiny rimfire round far more effective than many people realize. While it’s true that larger calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP offer more stopping power, not everyone can handle their recoil, and in some cases, a .22LR might be the best or only available option.
However, not all .22LR ammo is created equal. The wrong choice could leave you underpowered when it matters most. If you’re going to rely on this caliber for personal defense, these seven rounds offer the best balance of penetration, expansion, and reliability.
1. Federal Punch: The Hard-Hitting .22LR Choice
Federal Punch was specifically designed for self-defense, which is rare for .22LR ammunition. Unlike standard hollow points that often fail to expand reliably at rimfire velocities, the 29-grain nickel-plated flat-point bullet is built for deep penetration. In ballistic gel tests, this round outperformed .25 ACP and .32 ACP options, making it one of the most effective .22LR rounds available. Shot placement is still critical, but if you’re carrying a .22LR for defense, this is one of the best choices you can make.
2. CCI Stinger: A Speed Demon with a Punch
The CCI Stinger is legendary among .22LR enthusiasts. With a screaming velocity of 1,640 feet per second, this 32-grain copper-plated hollow point is in a class of its own. By elongating the case and using a slightly lighter bullet, CCI was able to push the Stinger into ultra-high velocity territory. This added speed increases energy transfer and gives the bullet a better chance of expanding on impact, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize velocity.
3. CCI Velocitor: The Perfect Balance of Power and Precision
Unlike the Stinger, which prioritizes speed, the CCI Velocitor offers a heavier 40-grain bullet while still achieving impressive velocities. This combination means better penetration, especially in self-defense situations. It delivers both expansion and deep wound channels, making it a solid choice for those who want a .22LR round with stopping power. It’s also highly reliable in semi-automatic handguns and rifles, a crucial factor in defensive situations.
4. Winchester 22 Magnum Defender: Big Performance in a Small Package
For those who use a .22 Magnum for self-defense, the Winchester 22 Magnum Defender is one of the best options available. Unlike many .22 Magnum rounds designed for rifles, this load is optimized for handguns, ensuring reliable expansion at lower velocities. Its 40-grain bullet is designed to penetrate between 9 and 14 inches in ballistic gel, giving it respectable performance for a rimfire cartridge.
5. Hornady Critical Defense 22 Magnum: Expanding Stopping Power
Hornady is known for its high-quality self-defense ammunition, and its .22 Magnum offering is no exception. This 45-grain load takes advantage of the .22 Magnum’s additional velocity to achieve reliable expansion while still maintaining good penetration. From barrel lengths between 1 and 5 inches, this round expands between 32 and 36 inches in testing, giving it a considerable advantage over standard .22LR rounds.
6. Speer Gold Dot 22 Magnum: Small But Deadly
Another excellent option for .22 Magnum users, the Speer Gold Dot 22 Magnum offers exceptional expansion and penetration. Unlike some other rimfire loads, this bullet is bonded to retain its weight upon impact, minimizing fragmentation and maximizing stopping power. With impact velocities ranging from 700 to 1,300 feet per second, it delivers consistent and effective terminal ballistics.
7. Aguila Super Extra 40-Grain: Reliability First
Sometimes, the best defensive ammo is simply the one that feeds and fires flawlessly. Aguila’s Super Extra 40-grain copper-plated round nose load is designed for exceptional reliability, making it a great choice for those who need a .22LR round that won’t jam or misfire. It doesn’t expand like hollow points, but its higher velocity and round-nose profile give it decent penetration. For those using revolvers or rifles for defense, this is a solid no-frills option.
Understanding .22LR as a Defensive Choice
Choosing .22LR for self-defense isn’t about power – it’s about accessibility and practicality. Many people, whether due to recoil sensitivity, physical limitations, or simple affordability, find the .22LR to be the best option available. While it may not have the brute force of a larger caliber, its low recoil allows for accurate and fast follow-up shots, which can be just as crucial in a self-defense scenario.
Penetration vs. Expansion: What Matters More?
In defensive shooting, penetration is often considered more important than expansion. A bullet that fails to reach vital organs may not stop a threat effectively. While larger calibers often balance penetration and expansion well, .22LR struggles to achieve both. This is why rounds like Federal Punch and CCI Velocitor are ideal—one maximizes penetration, while the other ensures expansion and stopping power.
Handguns vs. Rifles: The Effect of Barrel Length
The effectiveness of .22LR rounds varies greatly depending on barrel length. Many high-velocity rimfire loads achieve their maximum potential from rifle-length barrels. When fired from a pistol, velocity can drop significantly, reducing both penetration and expansion. If you’re using a handgun for self-defense, selecting rounds specifically optimized for shorter barrels, like Federal Punch or CCI Velocitor, is crucial.
Why Reliability is Non-Negotiable
One of the biggest drawbacks of rimfire ammunition is its occasional failure to fire. Unlike centerfire cartridges, which have a primer in the center of the case, rimfire rounds rely on a priming compound distributed around the case rim. This can sometimes lead to misfires. That’s why premium brands like CCI, Hornady, and Federal tend to be preferred – they have a reputation for higher reliability.
Choosing the Right .22LR for Self-Defense
While the .22LR will never be a first-choice caliber for self-defense among most firearms experts, it does have a place. Whether for those who need a low-recoil option or as a backup gun, the right ammunition can make a big difference. If you’re relying on a .22LR or .22 Magnum for personal protection, make sure to choose rounds that offer deep penetration, reliable expansion, and consistent performance.
In the end, shot placement remains king, but having the right ammo could be the difference between life and death.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.